The normal way of finding new artists to book is to attend a programming conference, watch several showcases, block book with other schools, and be done.
The programming board at Bemidji State University is trying a new method, well at least new to me. They are using Sonicbids, a sort of online showcase place for talent, to post an open casting call for artists to fill their coffeehouse performances.
Bemidji State University is currently accepting submissions for performances during the Fall 2008 semester. Located in Bemidji, MN and enrolling over 4,500 students, they typically book 2-3 artists for Coffeehouse performances each semester.
Performances will take place in the Lower Union on campus during lunch hours. Local, regional, and touring acoustic acts are welcome to submit for consideration. Specifically, the school in interested in smaller, acoustic alternative rock, indie, folk, R&B and pop acts.
Artists will be compensated for their performances with a negotiable amount ranging from $500-$800, all inclusive. The school will provide a PA system. Past performers include Julie Moffitt, Tyler James, Shevy Smith, and others.
I think this does several things for the artist booking process:
- Saves the school money and time of going to the conferences.
- Allows the school to set their budget and have the artist submit interest, instead of the artist setting their fee and the school submitting interest.
- Better organization and environmentally sound as it is all done electronically.
- More artists are given a shot at being booked as it is very cheap to use Sonicbids.
I’ll contact the Bemidji programming board and ask them to comment on this post to let us know how the process is going. Has anyone else used Sonicbids to book acts?
